Patentable/Patents/US-11997486
US-11997486

Method and system of providing WiFi credentials through remote invitations

PublishedMay 28, 2024
Assigneenot available in USPTO data we have
Inventorsnot available in USPTO data we have
Technical Abstract

Computer implemented methods, systems, and computer program products are provided including identifying a new reservation from an electronic device for automatic access to a network; conveying the credentials to the electronic device prior to arriving at a structure associated with the network; and granting access to a network once the electronic device is detected by the network.

Patent Claims
14 claims

Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.

Claim 2

Original Legal Text

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising storing the PN credentials on the ED with one or more of location information or date information related to the scheduled event, prior to the scheduled event.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a system for managing personal network (PN) credentials for accessing scheduled events. The problem addressed is the need to securely and efficiently distribute and manage access credentials for events, ensuring that only authorized individuals can enter at the correct time and location. The method involves generating a unique PN credential for each scheduled event, which is then transmitted to an electronic device (ED) associated with an authorized user. The credential is stored on the ED along with additional metadata, such as location information (e.g., venue coordinates) or date information (e.g., event start/end times), before the event occurs. This ensures that the credential is tied to the specific event details, reducing the risk of unauthorized access or misuse. The credential may be used to authenticate the user at the event venue, either through a physical or digital check-in process. The system may also include a central server that manages the generation, distribution, and validation of these credentials, ensuring that only valid credentials are accepted. The stored metadata allows for real-time verification of the credential's validity based on the user's current location and time, enhancing security. This approach improves event access control by automating credential management and reducing manual verification steps.

Claim 3

Original Legal Text

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the electronic invitation includes the PN credentials and one or more of a location or a time associated with the scheduled event.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to systems for managing access to events or locations using electronic invitations and personal network (PN) credentials. The problem addressed is the need for secure, automated access control to events or locations without requiring physical credentials or manual verification. The invention provides a method where an electronic invitation is sent to a user, containing PN credentials and additional event details such as location or time. The PN credentials enable the user to access the event or location by authenticating with a network system, which verifies the credentials against a database. The system may also use the location or time data to further validate access, ensuring only authorized users can enter at the correct time and place. This method improves security and convenience by eliminating the need for physical tickets or manual checks, while also allowing event organizers to track attendance dynamically. The invention may be applied to various scenarios, including conferences, concerts, or restricted areas where controlled access is required. The system can be integrated with existing network infrastructure, such as Wi-Fi or mobile authentication systems, to streamline the process.

Claim 4

Original Legal Text

4. The method of claim 1, wherein storing the PN credentials comprises importing the PN credentials onto a prestored list of credentials associated with different wireless networks, the PN credentials including an identifier of the wireless network.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless network authentication, specifically a method for securely storing and managing credentials for personal networks (PN). The problem addressed is the need for efficient and secure handling of credentials across multiple wireless networks, ensuring seamless and authenticated access without manual re-entry. The method involves importing PN credentials onto a prestored list of credentials associated with different wireless networks. These credentials include an identifier of the wireless network, allowing the system to recognize and authenticate the user automatically. The prestored list acts as a centralized repository, enabling quick retrieval and application of the correct credentials when connecting to a network. This eliminates the need for repeated manual input, reducing errors and improving user convenience. The method also includes verifying the PN credentials before storing them, ensuring only valid and authorized credentials are added to the list. This verification step enhances security by preventing unauthorized access. Once verified, the credentials are stored in a secure manner, protecting them from unauthorized access or tampering. The invention improves upon existing systems by providing a more streamlined and secure approach to managing wireless network credentials, particularly in environments where multiple networks are accessed frequently. This method is applicable in various settings, including home, office, and public networks, where secure and efficient authentication is critical.

Claim 5

Original Legal Text

5. The method of claim 1, wherein the method further comprises determining that the ED is within the range of the wireless network, wherein the determining further comprises one or more of: i) detecting a SSID for the wireless network, ii) utilizing GPS data to identify when the ED is at a location associated with the scheduled event, or iii) determining that a current location of the ED corresponds to a location of the scheduled event.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless network connectivity for electronic devices (EDs) during scheduled events. The problem addressed is ensuring seamless and automatic connection of an ED to a wireless network when the device is within range of the network, particularly for events like conferences, meetings, or other scheduled activities. The method involves determining whether the ED is within the range of the wireless network by detecting the network's Service Set Identifier (SSID), using GPS data to confirm the device's location matches the event's location, or verifying that the current location of the ED corresponds to the event's location. Once within range, the ED automatically connects to the network, eliminating the need for manual configuration. This ensures uninterrupted connectivity for applications, data sharing, or other network-dependent functions during the event. The solution enhances user experience by automating the connection process and reducing setup time, making it particularly useful in environments where multiple devices need reliable network access. The method may also include additional steps such as authenticating the device or configuring network settings based on the event's requirements.

Claim 6

Original Legal Text

6. The method of claim 1, further comprising communicating, via the ED, a request associated with the scheduled event, and the electronic invitation is received in response to communicating the request, wherein the electronic invitation and the PN credentials are remotely generated by a server associated with the wireless network for a physical structural environment (PSE) corresponding to a location of the scheduled event.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless network access control for physical structural environments (PSEs) such as buildings or venues. The problem addressed is securely granting temporary network access to visitors or attendees for scheduled events, such as meetings or conferences, without requiring pre-configured credentials. The method involves a wireless network access device (ED) that communicates a request associated with a scheduled event to a server. The server, associated with the wireless network for the PSE, generates an electronic invitation and personal network (PN) credentials in response to the request. The electronic invitation is then received by the ED, allowing the user to access the wireless network during the event. The PN credentials are specific to the PSE location where the event is held, ensuring secure and location-specific access. This approach eliminates the need for manual credential provisioning, streamlining the process for both event organizers and attendees. The system dynamically generates and distributes credentials, enhancing security and convenience for temporary network access in controlled environments.

Claim 7

Original Legal Text

7. The method of claim 1, further comprising, prior to the storing, comparing the PN credentials that are received to one or more of a calendar invitation, an electronic mail message, a text message, a current location of the ED, or a current date, and determining whether to import the PN credential to the ED based on the comparison.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a method for securely managing and importing personal network (PN) credentials to an electronic device (ED). The method addresses the problem of securely and efficiently transferring PN credentials to an ED while ensuring the credentials are relevant and authorized for use. The method involves receiving PN credentials at the ED, where these credentials are used to authenticate and access a personal network. Before storing the credentials, the method compares them against one or more contextual factors, such as a calendar invitation, an email message, a text message, the current location of the ED, or the current date. Based on this comparison, the method determines whether to import the PN credentials to the ED. This ensures that only relevant and authorized credentials are stored, enhancing security and usability. The comparison step may involve checking if the credentials match or are associated with the contextual factors, such as verifying if a calendar invitation includes details that align with the PN credentials or if the current location of the ED is within a predefined range for the PN. This method improves the security and efficiency of credential management by dynamically assessing the relevance of credentials before storage.

Claim 8

Original Legal Text

8. The method of claim 7, wherein the ED represents a first ED, the method further comprising communicating the PN credentials to one or more secondary EDs that have access to one or more of a common calendar, an electronic mail account, or a text messaging account associated with the first ED.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to secure communication of personal network (PN) credentials between electronic devices (EDs). The problem addressed is the need to securely share access credentials across multiple devices that access shared digital resources, such as calendars, email accounts, or text messaging services, without compromising security. The method involves a first electronic device (ED) generating or receiving PN credentials, which are then communicated to one or more secondary EDs. These secondary EDs are authorized to access shared digital resources linked to the first ED, such as a common calendar, an email account, or a text messaging account. The communication of PN credentials ensures that all authorized devices can securely interact with these shared resources while maintaining access control and security. The method may also include steps for authenticating the secondary EDs before credential sharing, encrypting the credentials during transmission, and managing access permissions to prevent unauthorized use. This approach enhances security and convenience by allowing seamless access to shared digital resources across multiple devices while minimizing the risk of credential exposure. The solution is particularly useful in environments where multiple devices need synchronized access to personal or professional digital accounts.

Claim 9

Original Legal Text

9. The method of claim 1, further comprising presenting, via the ED, at least the password information of the PN credentials to a network device associated with the wireless network while the ED is within the range for the ED to gain access to the wireless network.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless network access using electronic devices (EDs) and personal network (PN) credentials. The problem addressed is the need for secure and convenient access to wireless networks, particularly in scenarios where manual entry of credentials is impractical or insecure. The method involves an electronic device (ED) that stores password information of personal network (PN) credentials. When the ED is within range of a network device associated with a wireless network, the ED automatically presents the password information to the network device. This allows the ED to gain access to the wireless network without requiring manual credential entry. The presentation of credentials is triggered by proximity, ensuring seamless and secure access. The method may also include the ED receiving the PN credentials from a user or another device, storing them securely, and using them to authenticate with the network device. The network device verifies the credentials and grants access if they are valid. This approach enhances security by reducing the risk of credential exposure during manual entry and improves user convenience by automating the authentication process. The system is particularly useful in environments where multiple devices need frequent or automatic access to a wireless network.

Claim 11

Original Legal Text

11. The method of claim 10, further comprising: identifying, by the one or more servers, a request from the ED that is associated with a scheduled event, wherein the PN credentials are conveyed in response to receiving the request and prior to the scheduled event.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a system for securely conveying patient notification (PN) credentials to an electronic device (ED) associated with a user, such as a healthcare provider, to facilitate access to a scheduled event. The system involves one or more servers that manage the distribution of PN credentials, which are used to authenticate the user for accessing the scheduled event. The method includes identifying a request from the ED that is linked to a scheduled event, such as a medical appointment or procedure. In response to this request and before the scheduled event occurs, the servers transmit the PN credentials to the ED. This ensures that the user has the necessary authentication credentials in advance, allowing seamless and secure access to the event. The system may also involve generating or retrieving the PN credentials from a database, validating the request, and encrypting the credentials for secure transmission. The invention addresses the need for secure, timely, and automated credential distribution in healthcare environments to enhance access control and data security.

Claim 13

Original Legal Text

13. The system of claim 12, wherein, in response to determining that the ED is within the range of the wireless network, the one or more processors receive the PN credentials stored in the ED and determine that the PN credentials stored in the ED are one or more of: i) valid, ii) expired, iii) match current booking information, or iv) associated with a very important person (VIP).

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a wireless network access control system for electronic devices (EDs) such as vehicles or mobile devices. The system addresses the challenge of securely and efficiently managing access to a wireless network based on pre-stored credentials and user status. The system includes one or more processors configured to detect when an ED enters the range of the wireless network. Upon detection, the processors retrieve pre-stored parking network (PN) credentials from the ED and evaluate their validity. The evaluation determines whether the credentials are valid, expired, match current booking information, or are associated with a very important person (VIP). Based on this assessment, the system grants or denies network access accordingly. The system may also include a communication interface for exchanging data with the ED and a memory for storing network access policies. The invention ensures secure and automated access control, reducing manual intervention while accommodating different user priorities, such as VIP status or booking validity.

Claim 14

Original Legal Text

14. The system of claim 13, wherein, responsive to execution of the program instructions, the one or more processors deny access to the wireless network upon determining that the PN credentials stored in the ED are at least one of invalid, expired, or mismatched relative to the current booking information, and that the PN credentials are not associated with a very important person (VIP); and the one or more processors grant access to the wireless network upon determining that the PN credentials stored in the ED are associated with the VIP.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a wireless network access control system that manages entry based on passenger name (PN) credentials and VIP status. The system addresses the problem of unauthorized or improper access to wireless networks, particularly in environments like airports or hotels where temporary network access is granted to travelers. The system includes a processor, memory, and program instructions that validate PN credentials against current booking information. If the credentials are invalid, expired, or mismatched with the booking data, and the user is not a VIP, access is denied. However, if the credentials are associated with a VIP, access is granted regardless of other validation checks. The system ensures secure network access while prioritizing VIP users, improving both security and user experience. The solution integrates with existing booking systems to dynamically verify credentials, preventing unauthorized access while streamlining the process for high-priority individuals. This approach enhances network security without compromising convenience for VIPs.

Claim 15

Original Legal Text

15. The system of claim 12, wherein, responsive to execution of the program instructions, the one or more processors convey the PN credentials to the ED in response to identifying a new request from the ED.

Plain English Translation

A system for securely managing program number (PN) credentials in a networked environment addresses the challenge of ensuring authorized access to protected resources while minimizing exposure of sensitive credentials. The system includes a processor and memory storing program instructions that, when executed, enable the processor to receive a request from an endpoint device (ED) and authenticate the ED based on predefined criteria. Upon successful authentication, the system retrieves PN credentials associated with the ED from a secure storage location. The credentials are then conveyed to the ED in response to identifying a new request, ensuring that the ED can access the required resources without storing the credentials locally. This approach enhances security by reducing the risk of credential exposure and unauthorized access. The system may also include additional features such as credential validation, logging of access attempts, and periodic credential updates to further strengthen security measures. The overall solution provides a robust framework for managing sensitive credentials in a controlled and secure manner, suitable for applications in enterprise networks, cloud computing, and other environments where secure access control is critical.

Claim 16

Original Legal Text

16. The system of claim 12, wherein, responsive to execution of the program instructions, the one or more processors determine whether an old credential is in memory, wherein the old credential is deleted upon detection.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a system for managing credentials in a computing environment, particularly focusing on the secure handling and deletion of old or outdated credentials to enhance system security. The system includes one or more processors and memory storing program instructions that, when executed, perform credential management tasks. A key feature is the detection and automatic deletion of old credentials stored in memory to prevent unauthorized access or security vulnerabilities. The system may also include a credential storage module for securely storing and retrieving credentials, as well as a credential validation module to verify the authenticity and validity of credentials. The system ensures that outdated credentials are promptly identified and removed, reducing the risk of credential misuse. This approach enhances security by minimizing the presence of stale or compromised credentials in the system's memory. The system may operate in various computing environments, including cloud-based or on-premises systems, where credential management is critical for maintaining secure access control.

Claim 17

Original Legal Text

17. The system of claim 12, wherein, responsive to execution of the program instructions, the one or more processors record position data of the ED in a tracking log and record one or more of a check-in time, a check-out time, network access level, or a room number.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a system for tracking and managing electronic devices (EDs) within a networked environment, such as a hotel, office, or campus. The system addresses the challenge of monitoring device locations, access levels, and usage times to enhance security, compliance, and operational efficiency. The system includes one or more processors executing program instructions to track EDs by recording their position data in a tracking log. The log captures key details such as check-in and check-out times, network access levels, and room numbers. This enables administrators to monitor device movements, enforce access policies, and audit usage patterns. The system may also integrate with authentication mechanisms to verify device identity and authorize network access based on predefined rules. By logging these parameters, the system provides real-time visibility into device activity, helping prevent unauthorized access, detect anomalies, and streamline device management. The recorded data can be used for reporting, compliance audits, or troubleshooting. The system is particularly useful in environments where device mobility and access control are critical, such as hospitality, healthcare, or enterprise settings. The tracking log serves as a centralized repository for historical and current device data, supporting both automated and manual oversight.

Classification Codes (CPC)

Cooperative Patent Classification codes for this invention. Click any code to explore related patents in that topic.

Patent Metadata

Filing Date

December 20, 2019

Publication Date

May 28, 2024

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